The Hartford

Your house can be as vulnerable to a natural disaster as you are. When creating emergency plans, make sure you think about how to prepare your home in advance of a disaster, especially if you may need to evacuate. There are different steps you can take depending on the disaster.  But, regardless of what disaster you may face hurricane, earthquake, wildfire or any other emergency situation planning ahead can help minimize damages and loss.

Hurricanes

• Inspect all pipes and drains and clear away debris.
• Cover windows with storm shutters. If you don't have storm shutters, use plywood or masking tape to cover windows to minimize flying glass.
• Secure sheds and carports.  Sheds, carports, barns and other unstable structures may blow down in strong winds.
• Move objects indoors or secure them outside. Anything that could be moved by high winds or floodwaters should be moved inside or secured.
• Lock your windows and doors.
• If you have to evacuate, unplug all electrical appliances and shut off the gas, electricity and water.
• Document your belongings. Photograph or videotape your personal belongings, and make a written list to accompany your photos or video. Store the documentation in a waterproof container or in a safe place outside of your house. This should be done well before hurricane season starts.

Wildfires

• Evaluate the landscaping around your house.  Move or get rid of plants or trees that burn easily or are too close to your house.
• Clear dead plants away from your house. Dead grass and plants are easily flammable and should be cleared at least 50 feet away from your house.
• Install smoke alarms in your house.  Make sure you test the alarms periodically to ensure they are working properly.
• Consider installing flame-retardant or tile shingles on your roof instead of wood or standard shingles.
• Water down your property. If you have time, use a hose to wet down your house, the roof and the surrounding area.
• Turn off the gas in the house.

Earthquakes

• Retrofit and reinforce your house.  If you're in a high risk area, take steps to reinforce your house. Bolt your house to the foundation and reinforce support beams as needed.
• Secure any furniture such as bookshelves and cabinets to the walls to minimize risk of falling over during a quake. Add latches to cabinet doors to help keep dishes and other contents from falling out.
• Secure your water heater to a nearby wall.
• Anchor computers and other small appliances to desks, counters and tables.
• Consider replacing windows and glass doors with safety glass or cover them with safety film.